4-Day Family Adventure: Discovering Hidden Gems in Skopje
Skopje, North Macedonia
4 days
About Skopje, North Macedonia
Discover the vibrant city of Skopje, North Macedonia's capital, where history and modernity coexist. Explore the Old Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, or visit the impressive Skopje Fortress, offering panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the iconic Stone Bridge, a symbol of Skopje, connecting the old and new parts of the city. Experience the local culture at the Museum of Macedonia, showcasing the country's rich heritage. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city's many parks and squares, or indulge in local cuisine at a traditional Macedonian restaurant. Skopje is a city that will surprise and delight you with its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary buzz.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Day at the Zoo and City Park
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Skopje Zoo, home to a variety of animals from around the world. It's a great place for children to learn about wildlife.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant near the zoo. Try some local dishes like Burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the City Park, a large green space perfect for relaxation. You can rent a paddle boat, play sports, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant in the city center. Try some traditional Macedonian dishes like Shopska Salad, a fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and cheese.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Macedonia Square, the main square in Skopje. Enjoy the beautiful night view of the statue of Alexander the Great.
Day 3
Adventure at Matka Canyon
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Matka Canyon, a stunning natural area just outside of Skopje. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and explore the caves.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch at Matka Canyon. Enjoy the serene surroundings while eating sandwiches, fruits, and other picnic foods.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon hiking in the canyon. There are several trails to choose from, each offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Dinner
Return to Skopje and have dinner at a restaurant near the city center. Try some local dishes like Ajvar, a red pepper spread, or Kebapi, grilled meat skewers.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Stone Bridge, a historic bridge that offers beautiful views of the city at night.
Day 4
Museum Visit and Millennium Cross Experience
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Museum of the City of Skopje, housed in an old railway station. Learn about the city's history and culture through various exhibits.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant near the museum. Try some traditional Macedonian dishes like Selsko Meso, a meat and vegetable stew.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Millennium Cross and the surrounding Vodno Mountain. Take the cable car up to the cross for stunning views of the city.
Dinner
Have your final dinner in Skopje at a restaurant in the city center. Enjoy a traditional Macedonian feast to celebrate your trip.
Evening
End your trip with a leisurely stroll around the city center, soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on your experiences.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Old Bazaar
One of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, offering a variety of shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
2Kale Fortress
A historic fortress located on the highest hill in the city, offering panoramic views of Skopje.
3Art Bridge
A pedestrian bridge adorned with 29 statues of notable Macedonian artists and musicians, providing a unique blend of architecture and sculpture.
4Skopje Zoo
The Skopje Zoo is a 12-hectare zoo in Gradski Park, Skopje, North Macedonia. It is home to about 300 animals representing around 85 species.
5Macedonia Square
Macedonia Square is the main square of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The square is the biggest in North Macedonia with total 18.500 m2. It is located in the central part of the city, and it crosses the Vardar River. The Christmas festivals are always held there and it is the main location of the city's New Year's Eve celebrations.
6Matka Canyon
A stunning canyon on the outskirts of Skopje, popular for hiking, boating, and rock climbing.
7Stone Bridge
A historic bridge over the Vardar River in the heart of Skopje.
8Museum of the City of Skopje
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Skopje, housed in an old railway station damaged in the 1963 earthquake.
9Millennium Cross
A 66-meter tall cross situated on top of the Vodno Mountain, built to commemorate 2,000 years of Christianity in Macedonia.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Tavče Gravče
This is North Macedonia's national dish. It's a traditional bean stew, baked in a clay pot with various spices and often served with sausage.
Shopska Salata
A popular salad in Skopje, made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and sirene (a local white cheese).
Rakija
A traditional fruit brandy that is very popular in North Macedonia. It can be made from various fruits, but grape rakija is the most common.
Pljeskavica
A traditional Balkan dish, it's a spiced meat patty mixture of pork, beef and lamb, served with onions and ajvar (a red pepper spread).
Ajvar
A type of relish, made primarily from red bell peppers, with garlic. It's often served with bread or meat dishes.
Kebapi
These are small, grilled minced meat sausages, a specialty of Skopje. They're usually served with flatbread and onions.
Turli Tava
A hearty stew made with various vegetables, meat, and spices. It's a traditional Macedonian dish, often served with bread.
Zelnik
A traditional Macedonian pastry, filled with cheese, leeks, or spinach. It's often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
Trileçe
A popular dessert in Skopje, it's a sponge cake made with three types of milk: cow's milk, condensed milk, and cream.
Boza
A traditional fermented beverage, made from maize and wheat. It's sweet, thick, and slightly acidic.
Makalo
A traditional Macedonian dish, it's a type of garlic sauce often served with meat dishes.
Kifli
A type of bread roll, often served for breakfast. It's soft, fluffy, and can be filled with various ingredients like cheese or jam.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Skopje, North Macedonia is during the late spring and early fall, specifically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded as well, allowing tourists to explore at a leisurely pace. However, if you're interested in winter sports, you might want to consider visiting between December and February when the nearby ski resorts are in full swing.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 7 | Sun | Orthodox Christmas Day |
January 8 | Mon | Day off for Orthodox Christmas Day |
April 10 | Wed | Eid al-Fitr |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 6 | Mon | Easter Monday (Orthodox) |
May 24 | Fri | Saints Cyril and Methodius' Day |
August 2 | Fri | Republic Day |
September 8 | Sun | Independence Day |
September 9 | Mon | Day off for Independence Day |
October 11 | Fri | Day of People’s Uprising |
October 23 | Wed | Day of the Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle |
December 8 | Sun | Saint Kliment Ohridski's Day |
December 9 | Mon | Day off for Saint Kliment Ohridski's Day |
How to get around
Public Bus
Public buses are a common way to get around Skopje. The city has an extensive bus network that covers most areas of the city. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks or directly from the bus driver.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Skopje and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are metered and relatively affordable. It's important to ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a convenient way to explore Skopje and the surrounding areas at your own pace. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and throughout the city.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Bolt are available in Skopje. These can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local public transportation system.
Bicycle Rental
Skopje has a number of bicycle rental services, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. There are also several bike paths and trails throughout the city.
Foot
Many of Skopje's main attractions are located within walking distance of each other in the city center. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, particularly in the pedestrian-friendly Old Bazaar area.
Train
While not as commonly used for local travel within Skopje, trains can be a good option for day trips to nearby towns and cities. Skopje's main train station is centrally located and offers connections to a number of destinations.
Important information
Currency MKD
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 94; Fire: 93; Police: 92
Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Skopje, North Macedonia as a first time visitor
1
The official language is Macedonian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.
2
The local currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.
3
Skopje has a continental climate. Summers (June to September) can be hot with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 95°F (21°C to 35°C), while winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures from 20°F to 45°F (-6°C to 7°C).
4
Tipping is customary in Skopje. It's usual to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants and cafes.
5
Public transportation in Skopje includes buses and taxis. The city also has a bike-sharing system.
6
Skopje is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
7
The local cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like Tavče Gravče (baked beans) and Ajvar (red pepper spread).
8
Tap water is safe to drink in Skopje, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.
9
Smoking is very common in North Macedonia and is allowed in many public places, including some restaurants and cafes.
10
Skopje has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
11
The city is very walkable, especially the city center and the Old Bazaar area.
12
Skopje is a mix of old and new, with modern buildings standing next to Ottoman-era architecture.
13
The city is known for its many statues, including a giant statue of Alexander the Great in the city center.
14
Skopje is located in a seismic zone, and although major earthquakes are rare, smaller tremors do occur occasionally.
15
North Macedonia uses the Central European Time Zone (CET) and observes daylight saving time.
16
The country's electrical supply is 220 volts and uses Type C and Type F plugs, so you may need a converter or adapter.
17
Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and most medicines can be purchased without a prescription.
18
Public restrooms are not as common as in some other European cities, so it's a good idea to use the restroom at restaurants or cafes when available.
19
Skopje has a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters.
20
The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Skopje Summer Festival and the Skopje Jazz Festival.
Basic Macedonian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Здраво | Zdravo | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Довиѓање | Doviđanje | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Ве молам | Ve molam | Making a request |
Thank you | Ви благодарам | Vi blagodaram | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Да | Da | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Не | Ne | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Извинете | Izvinete | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Жал ми е | Žal mi e | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Зборувате ли англиски? | Zboruvate li angliski? | Trying to communicate |
I don't understand | Не разбирам | Ne razbiram | Having trouble understanding |
Where is the bathroom? | Каде е тоалетот? | Kade e toaletot? | Looking for the bathroom |
How much does this cost? | Колку чини ова? | Kolku čini ova? | Shopping or dining |
I would like to order | Сакам да нарачам | Sakam da naračam | Ordering food or drink |
Water | Вода | Voda | Ordering water |
Beer | Пиво | Pivo | Ordering beer |
Wine | Вино | Vino | Ordering wine |
Help | Помош | Pomoš | In need of assistance |
Call the police | Повикајте полиција | Povikajte policija | In an emergency |
I'm lost | Се изгубив | Se izgubiv | Needing directions |
Can you help me? | Можете ли да ми помогнете? | Možete li da mi pomognete? | Asking for help |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)
Sweater or Jacket (1)
Sleepwear (1 set)
Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)
Swimsuit (1)
Hat/Cap for sun protection (1)
Sunglasses (1 pair)
Toiletries
Toothbrush (1)
Toothpaste (1 small tube)
Deodorant (1)
Shampoo and Conditioner (travel size)
Body wash or soap (travel size)
Razor and Shaving cream
Sunscreen (1 bottle)
Lip balm with SPF (1)
Hand sanitizer (1 small bottle)
Prescription medications (if any)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit/Debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contact list
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones or earbuds
Camera
Charger for camera
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for travel
Travel pillow and blanket
First aid kit
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel-sized wet wipes
Travel-sized tissues
Notebook and pen
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Weather Conditions
Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia, experiences a mix of Mediterranean and continental climates. This means that the weather can vary quite a bit depending on the time of year you visit. In the summer months, from June to August, Skopje can get quite hot with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection. The evenings are usually cooler, so it's a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater. The winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often dropping to around 32°F (0°C). Snowfall is common during this period, making it a picturesque time to visit. However, it's essential to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally mild with temperatures ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). These seasons are ideal for sightseeing as the weather is comfortable and the city is less crowded. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly, so it's wise to pack layers and be prepared for a variety of conditions.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 6° / -2° | January is the coldest month in Skopje, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience a Macedonian winter. |
February | 8° / -1° | February is still quite cold in Skopje, but temperatures start to rise slightly. You might experience some snowfall during this month. |
March | 14° / 2° | March sees the beginning of spring in Skopje. The weather starts to warm up, but there can still be some chilly days. |
April | 18° / 6° | April is a pleasant month to visit Skopje, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings. |
May | 22° / 10° | May is a beautiful month in Skopje, with warm temperatures and lots of sun. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
June | 26° / 14° | June marks the beginning of summer in Skopje. The weather is hot, making it a great time to visit the city's many outdoor attractions. |
July | 28° / 16° | July is the hottest month in Skopje, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather. |
August | 28° / 16° | August is another hot month in Skopje. It's a great time to visit the city's outdoor attractions, but be prepared for the heat. |
September | 24° / 12° | September is a pleasant month in Skopje, with mild temperatures and less crowds. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter travel experience. |
October | 19° / 7° | October sees the arrival of autumn in Skopje. The weather is cooler, but still comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
November | 11° / 3° | November is a cool month in Skopje, with temperatures dropping and less sunshine. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
December | 6° / 0° | December is a cold month in Skopje, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience a Macedonian winter. |
Did you know?
Places near by Skopje, North Macedonia
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